'Long live the Mamba': Internet users moved to tears after late Kobe Bryant's 19-foot statue unveiled outside Lakers' arena in LA

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: In a recent tribute to basketball icon, Kobe Bryant, a 19-foot-long statue was unveiled outside the Lakers' arena in Los Angeles, evoking emotional responses from fans on social media who hailed it as the ultimate homage to the late legend.

Adding to Kobe's enduring legacy, his eldest daughter, Natalia Bryant, garnered attention as she discussed navigating fame, family heritage, and her aspirations in the entertainment industry in a recent interview for Town & Country's family issue. Natalia, one of Kobe and Vanessa Bryant's four children, shared insights into forging her path in both her career and personal life.

Furthermore, Kobe's influence continues to resonate, with Dwayne Wade recently reflecting on the profound impact of Kobe's 2018 Oscar win for the animated short film 'Dear Basketball' on 'The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon'.

Kobe Bryant's statue unveiled in Los Angeles 

According to CBS News, a ceremony unveiling a statue in honor of Lakers legend Kobe Bryant was held at the Star Plaza outside the Crypto.com Arena on Thursday afternoon.

The Lakers expressed to CBS News that the statue is intended to serve as a lasting tribute to Kobe's esteemed Lakers legacy, providing fans worldwide with a place to honor him and reminisce about his remarkable basketball journey.

The bronze statue, capturing Kobe pointing upward, was revealed ahead of the Lakers' game against the Denver Nuggets at 3.30 pm. Vanessa, Kobe's widow, disclosed to CBS News that it will be the first of three planned statues.

Described by The Guardian, the 4,000lb statue depicts Kobe in his iconic white number 8 jersey, raising his right index finger as he exited the court following his historic 81-point game against the Toronto Raptors in January 2006.

During the unveiling ceremony, according to People Magazine, Vanessa delivered a moving speech, expressing her sentiments: "It goes without saying that today is an especially sad day for us since Kobe and Gigi aren't here for what is supposed to be an incredibly joyous moment and Kobe’s legacy."

Vanessa also outlined plans for three statues outside the Crypto.com Arena, affectionately known as the 'house that Kobe built', showcasing him in his number 8 jersey, alongside his daughter Gianna, and in his number 24 jersey.

Underlining Kobe's involvement in selecting the statue's pose, Vanessa asserted, "And for the record, Kobe picked the pose you're about to see. So if anyone has any issues with it, tough s**t. It is what it is."

She concluded her speech with a quote from Kobe, encouraging all present to leave a positive impact on the game and aspire to become legends, just as he did.

The Guardian illuminated Kobe's illustrious 20-year career with the Lakers, citing his accomplishments such as being the NBA's fourth-leading scorer, earning 18 NBA All-Star selections, and securing two NBA Finals MVP awards. Tragically, Kobe died in a helicopter crash on January 26, 2020, along with his daughter Gianna and seven others.

Crafted by Omri Amrany and Julie Roblatt-Amrany, the statue bears the inscription 'Kobe Bean Bryant' along with his moniker 'Black Mamba', as reported by NBC 4.

Furthermore, The Guardian acknowledged Kobe's induction into a select group of Lakers players and team personnel honored with statues in Star Plaza, including Shaquille O’Neal, Abdul-Jabbar, Magic Johnson, Jerry West, Elgin Baylor, and Lakers announcer Chick Hearn.

Internet users call Kobe Bryant 'immortal'

A user wrote, "As it should be. Long Live The Mamba!"

Another user called Kobe, "Immortal"

A user commented, "The goat being respected as he should."

Another user commented, "What an amazing tribute to one of the best players of all time 🔥🥲👏"

This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online.